Remember to indulge in an Eco-Spa Wellness experience at Yaxkin Spa  

         Welcome to Yucatan Adventure Eco-Cultural Travel Guide !    
 

 
   Yucatan Adventure invites you to volunteer in our Sustainable Eco-Cultural Programs

            Yucatan Flora

            Yucatan Fauna  

 


     Yucatan Adventure:

    ▫ Home

    ▫ Special Offers

   
Places to Shop


    ▫ Safe Travel Tips

     Volunteering FAQ

    Things To Do

   
Contact Us
 

Chichen Services offers you great travel savings!
    Eco-Cultural Vacation
   Packages to fully enjoy
    Chichen Itza, Yucatan.

Yucatan Birds


    Articles
 
    
Cenote

   
Ecotourism

    ▫ Yucatan Wldlife: Flora

     Yucatan Wildlife: Fauna

 
    ▫ Destination Weddings

   
Maya People

   
Maya Spa

   
Mayan Cooking

 

YUCATAN FLORA:

  ▫ Dioon Cycads
 
Papaya Tree
  ▫
Ceiba Tree

  ▫ Agaves / Cactus

  Jim Conrad's Nature


    Social Volunteer Work:

    ▫ Mayan Foundation
  
    In Láakeech A.C.

   ▫ Join our MFIL team

   
MFIL Volunteering


    ▫ Xcalacoop Nutrition

   MFIL Social Work Ventures


 

Sponsored Site
Hacienda Chichen Resort at the heart of Chichen Itza
Best Hacienda in Yucatan,
a top wellness destination.

 


  Mayan Culture Articles:

   
Mayan Art Masters

   
Mayan Calendar

   
Mayan Rituals


    Maya Civilization

   ▫ Maya Cosmovision

   
Colonial Traditions

   
Maya Gods & Deities


    Archaeologists
   
Edward Thompson

   
Jean Charlot

   
Merle Greene

      
Robertson

   
Tatiana Proskouriakoff

 


In Laakeech logo

THE MAYA FOUNDATION
IN LAAKEECH

 


Yodzonot Cenote's
video


 

to help us help the Maya People of Yucatan.

For more information
please
email us.



Sponsor a Spot Ad Site:

Join our volunteer team

Join Yucatan Adventure's volunteers today!
Just contact us
via
email today!

You can help us continue
our social work programs
by requesting
us a Spot Ad
to showcase your website

 

Sponsored Site: Yaxkin Spa an Eco-Cultural experience!
    Mayan Holistic Spa
   Chichen Itza, Yucatan

 

  Yucatan Adventure:

    ▫ Home

    ▫ Special Offers

   
Places to Shop


    Things To Do

   
Contact Us

   
Join our Eco-Guide

    Volunteering FAQ

 

Bookmark Us!


Sponsored Site:
Hacienda Chichen Resort at the heart of Chichen Itza 







Reserve your stay at great
Hotels & Green Hacienda
in Yucatan, Mexico.

 

Participate in our
Yucatan Adventure's

   Google Blog 

Sponsored Site:

Chichen Services
    Eco-Cultural Vacation
   Packages to fully enjoy
    Chichen Itza, Yucatan.

 

Check our video interview
of Hacienda Chichen owners

Yucatan Adventure Volunteer Programs and Travel Guide, Chichen Itza, Mexico

Yucatan's Best Green
 Travel Guide!

 

 Our Favorites:

Mexico's Top Eco-Spa Resorts

Best Green Hotels in Yucatan

Best Eco-Wellness Vacations

Mayan Eco-Travel Packages

Yucatan's Mayan Spa Offers

Top Haciendas in Yucatan

Mexico Top Green Spa Resorts

Book an expectacular Green Vacation with Chichen Services, your Mayan Vacation Portal

Yucatan Birding Tours

Chichen Itza Eco-Activities

Yucatan Wedding Destinations

Gourmet Mayan Fusion Cuisine

Yucatan's Best Green

Vacation Packages

Yucatan Cenote Visits

 

Sponsored Site: Yaxkin Spa an Eco-Cultural experience!
    Mayan Holistic Spa
   Chichen Itza, Yucatan

 

   Yucatan Adventure
    Home

    ▫ Special Offers

   
Places to Shop


    ▫ Safe Travel Tips

     Volunteering FAQ

    Things To Do

   
Contact Us

 

    Cenote

   
Ecotourism

    ▫ Yucatan Wldlife: Flora

     Yucatan Wildlife: Fauna



 
    ▫ Destination Weddings

   
Maya People

   
Maya Spa

   
Mayan Cooking

     Volunteering FAQ

   
MFIL Nutrition Centers

   
Mayan Art Masters

   
Mayan Calendar

   
Mayan Rituals


    Maya Civilization

   ▫ Maya Cosmovision

   
Colonial Traditions

   
Maya Gods & Deities

    Join our Eco-Guide



Sponsored Site
Hacienda Chichen Resort at the heart of Chichen Itza
Best Hacienda in Yucatan,
a top wellness destination

Maya Cosmo-Vision
 

Archaeologists
   
Edward Thompson

   
Jean Charlot

   
Merle Greene R.
      
   
Tatiana Proskouriakoff

 

Chichen Services offers travelers the " Best Eco-Cultural Vacation Packages" in Yucatan
    Eco-Cultural Vacation
   Packages to fully enjoy
    Chichen Itza, Yucatan.

    Check out our blog !    


   Additional Articles:

 
   
Cenote

   
Ecotourism

 
    ▫ Destination Weddings

    ▫ Join our Eco-Guide

   
Maya People

   
Maya Spa

   
Mayan Cooking

 
  Mayan Nutrition Center

   
Mayan Art Masters

   
Mayan Calendar

   
Mayan Rituals

    ▫ Maya Cosmovision

    Maya Civilization

   
Colonial Traditions

   
Maya Gods & Deities

    ▫ Volunteering FAQ

    ▫ Mayan Skin Care

    ▫ Special Offers

   
Places to Shop


    Things To Do

    
Contact Us

    
Links

     ▫ Home
 

Bookmark Us!

Yucatan Adventure
supports the
 social vision of

THE MAYA FOUNDATION
IN LÁAKEECH

 

For more information on
how to support us, please contact us via
email
or
pledge your help !

 

.Sponsored Sites:


  Creative Wedding Galas
in Yucatan, Mexico.

 

YUCATAN FLORA:

  ▫ Dioon Cycads
 
Papaya Tree
  ▫
Ceiba Tree

  ▫ Agaves / Cactus

  Jim Conrad's Nature

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Things to do, places to visit while in
Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico

Mayan Cultural traditions Mayan Rituals
Article courtesy of Yaxkin Spa, Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico

Come participate in a Mayan New Fire Ceremony to celebrate
this September 2010 Fall Equinox in Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico 


 Just book any of our
Eco-Cultural vacation packages,
Mayan Holistic Wellness Retreats,
and other discount offers !

Visit our sponsor Chichen Service website for more great deals.. 

 


 

Things to do while staying in Chichen Itza:
Recommended Activities after visiting Chichen Itza's  Mayan Temples:
Celebrating 2010

 

View Yaxkin Spa exquisite Mayan Holistic Personal Care photos and brief info
Experience genuine
Mayan Holistic Spa Rituals and Mayan Healing Traditions at

 

Yaxkin Spa

Contact info@yaxkinspa.com

request our 10% Spa Discount
 

 

AWARDS: Top Eco-Spa and Holistic Wellness Destinations of North-America  by National Geographic Travel for its excellent service and commitment to embrace the Maya cultural traditions, as part of the experiences offered to travelers and guests.

Ten Best Eco-Spas of the World 2009 Selection by Conde Naste / Consierge.com

 

Indulge in Mayan Holistic Spa Personal Care, best Mayan Eco-Spa experiences in Yucatan, Mexico

 

ARTICLES:   Mayan Skin Care    Maya Spa     Mayan Rituals      Mayan Healing
 

LOCATION:  West road side at Chichen Itza's Hotel Zone, take Free Hwy 180, Km. 119, Rural Road from Piste to Xcalacoop, Exit at South Entrance Sign to visit the Mayan Archaeological Zone of Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico.

 

SERVICE PRICE RANGE:  Mayan Spa Holistic Personal Care from USD $ 45 and up

 


 

Yucatan Bird-Watching
and Mayan Nature Tours

 

Birding

Contact us info@yucatanadventure.com.mx

 

LOCATION:  Hacienda Chichen Bird Refuge and Sanctuary at Chichen Itza's Hotel Zone, Free Hwy 180, Km. 120, Rural Road from Piste to Xcalacoop, 

 

PRICE: Donation of US $ 15 per person is paid at the Hacienda Chichen front desk to support the Maya Foundation In Laakeech Sustainable, NGO,  Social Volunteer Work.
 


 

Swim in pristine mineral fresh water sinkholes called cenotes, many are near Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico

Yucatan Eco-Wonders
Natural Fresh Waters

 

Cenote Swimming

Contact us info@yucatanadventure.com.mx

 

LOCATION:  Yodzonot Mayan Village, take Free Hwy 180 a Rural Road, west from Piste to Yodzonot rural village and follow signs.

 

PRICE: Donation of US $ 8 per person is paid at entrance of this Eco-Park run by Mayan Female Locals who rent safety vests, snorkels, visors, hammocks, etc. Eco-public baths and restaurant available.

 


 

Chef Josue Cime has been awarded by the Maya Foundation In Laakeech for his exquisite Mayan Culinary Excellence

Chef Josue Cime's
Mayan
Culinary Classes
a truly unique cultural activity

 

Mayan Cooking

Contact us info@yucatanadventure.com.mx

 

LOCATION:  Mayan Organic Fruit Garden at Hacienda Chichen, take Free Hwy 180 a Rural Road from Piste to Xcalacoop, exit at the Chichen Hotel Zone sign, drive to the Hacienda Chichen main entrance; free parking, ask for Chef Josue Cime at front desk.

 

ARTICLES: Our Mayan Cuisine free recipes.   Mayan People

 

PRICE: Donation of USD $ 99 per person + tax.  90 minutes private Mayan cooking class, all ingredients are included plus you choose your own fresh organic veggies and herbs. Mayan, Colonial, Regional, Fusion Gourmet Cuisine Recipes.  Meal included.
 


Read about Merle Greene and her exquisite Mayan Rubbing Artwork

 

Merle Greene Robinson
Mayan
 Rubbings Museum
a fantastic cultural activity

 

Mayan Museum

Contact us info@yucatanadventure.com.mx

 

LOCATION:  To get to Merle Greene Museum and Art Gallery, take Free Hwy 180 a Rural Road from Piste to Xcalacoop, exit at Km 120 at the Chichen Itza' Hotel Zone sign, drive to Hacienda Chichen; free parking.  Ask for Mayan Museum at front desk

 

ARTICLESMerle Greene Brief Biography    Merle Greene Museum and Art Gallery 

 

PRICE: Donation of USD $ 3 per person or more is appreciated. Visit takes about 30 to 60 minutes to enjoy this private Mayan Rubbing Artwork Collection.   Free Parking. 

 


 

Check our Mayan Ritual Calendar here
 

2010 - 2011 Cultural Events you should not miss
while visiting Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico:

 

November, 2011
A Truly Traditional Mayan Ritual Celebration:

U Janal Pikan a Mayan Day of the Dead; a Holistic Maya Tradition, Chichen Itza, Mexico.
 

Mayan Offerings during U Janal Pixan Ceremony  for the Day of the DeadU JANAL PIXAN is an intimate Maya family ceremony to remember their deceased and their ancestors. This 2nd of November 2010 Hacienda Chichen and the Mayan J-Men celebrated their annual Day of the Dead before their Full Moon Maya Blessing, both Mayan Ceremonies in Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico.

Day of the Dead is a very important ancient tradition.
Maya villages prepare with tropical fruits and flowers and with up most care and reverence the “altar” in which the food and beverage for their dead loved ones is to be placed during the first three days of November each year.  In some villages nowadays, this ceremony is celebrated as a tradition that blends ancestral Maya practices with the Catholic belief system, imposed on the Maya during the Colonization of their land.  Nowadays, most Mayan families' religion is a fusion of Mayan spirituality with the Catholic dogma, such fusion has created the current practices and celebrations found in most mixed family backgrounds in Yucatan.  Today, you will find Catholic saint and virgin images placed on the altar as part of the offerings to the soul of those that have left the physical body.  The offerings are exotic flowers, personal things, copal and meals the person enjoy while alive: fruits, kakaw, tamales, along with photographs, cruces and other colorful artifacts are carefully placed among candle lights and exotic flowers.  Praying and fasting is traditional, as is to decorate with flowers and fruits the tomb site, also spend the night in the cemetery next to the tomb of those loved lighting candles, singing the songs they loved, and offering their favorite meals and memorabilia.  Muc bi’pollo, a grant tamale meal, is served traditionally during this days.

 


 

January, 2011
Come Celebrate a True Colonial Traditional:
January 6th, 2011: Day of the Wiseman Fiesta Tradition, Chichen Itza, Mexico.

 

Traditional Mexican Rosca de Reyes BreadROSCA DE REYES Fiesta  on Jan. 6th, 2011 at Hacienda Chichen, Enjoy this Colonial traditional fiesta and piñata party time if you are in Chichen Itza the afternoon of January 6th, 2011. Participate in this open free Rosca bread and Mayan hot chocolate at the Hacienda Chichen, who has launched a fun Colonial Mexican Traditional agenda as part of this unique green boutique hotel's dedication to share Mexico's Culture, fiestas and traditions with guests and visitors. Contact us for further details and registration; we highly recommend you to stay at this unique Green Boutique Spa-Hotel, contact their Reservation Center, call:

From Canada, Europe and USA Toll Free: 1-(877)-631-4005
From Mexico:       52 (999) 920 84 08
Email    : info@haciendachichen.com
Website: www.haciendachichen.com

 


 

February, 2011
Come Celebrate a True Colonial Traditional:
February 14th, 2011: Saint Valentine's Day a Mayan Chocolate Fiesta
at 4:30 PM - Hacienda Chichen Resort, Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico.

 

View our Mayan Chocolate Recipes Now MAYAN CHOCOLATE FIESTA a Mayan Kakaw Celebration, Feb. 14th 2011 - 4:30 P.M. Hacienda Chichen, Help us help and enjoy this Colonial traditional Chocolate fiesta celebrated on St. Valentines' Day in Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico. Participate in our Mayan Chocolate Festival on Saint Valentine's Day at 4:30 PM for USD $10 per person (visitors), offered at Hacienda Chichen Resort. This Colonial Mexican Traditional party as part of this unique green boutique hotel's dedication to share Mexico's Culture, fiestas and traditions with guests and visitors. Contact us for further details and registration; we highly recommend you to stay at this unique Green Boutique Spa-Hotel, contact their Reservation Center:


From Canada, Europe and USA Toll Free: 1-(877)-631-4005
From Mexico:       52 (999) 920 84 08
Email    : info@haciendachichen.com
Website: www.haciendachichen.com

 


 

 

March 20th and 21st, 2011

Spring Equinox: a Maya Celebration
 

Witness the great Light and Shadow effect of March Spring Equinox in the Kukulcan temple at Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico.  Book one of our vacation offers now

March 20th and 21st 2011: Mayan New Fire Ceremony, Chichen Itza, Mexico.

Experience a Mayan Holistic Purification Ceremony 
 


 


Places we recommend you visit in
        Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico.               

     MAYA ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES -
learn more about the Maya Civilization here.

    
Chichen Itza Kukulkan Temple
Chichen Itza Archaeological Zone: 
The best time to visit the Mayan temples and ruins
is early morning prior to mid-day tour group busses overcrowd the site. Late afternoon visits are also a delight, Maya Temples that need time to truly enjoy are the famous "Castillo" recently named as one of the seven wonders of the world, the Great Mayan Ball-Court, and the Thousand Columns Temple all true magnificent examples of power and grace.  Don't miss the "Caracol" or observatory temple at the south section of the visited zone.  We recommend you overnight at least two nights at Hacienda Chichen, where you can enjoy birding, Mayan Rituals and cultural traditions sure to make your stay a memorable one; this small hotel is a Mayan Jungle Eco-Spa Resort and the Best Green Boutique Hotel in Yucatan, Mexico.

Mayan Aluxe Guardians of Mother Nature and other Supernatural BeingsBalankanche: Maya Ceremonial Caves about 5 minutes east from Chichen Itza (on the free road to Valladolid).   These fabulous caves and underground waterways were part of the Initiation and Ceremonial Rites of ancient Maya, offerings and clay pots are still in place as you stroll through the narrow path leading to the main cave dome.

  

Ek Balam: Plan to visit this small archaeological zone only if you spend more than two days in Chichen area.  It is about 35 minutes drive north of Valladolid.  Restored in the 1990s, this archaeological site offers a fascinating encounter with the Maya stucco sculptures and motifs that normally ornate Maya temples and facades.
 

Mayan Jainas at Toh Boutique, Chichen Itza, Yucatan WHERE TO SHOP IN CHICHEN ITZA: 

While in Chichen Itza, the best place to shop is at Toh Boutique at Hacienda Chichen, this small gift and art boutiques shop features the most exquisite examples of fine Mayan arts: Mayan pottery, Maya ceramic replicas, Mayan jewelry and Maya Textiles that the Mayan craft traditions have to offer.  Profits benefit the Maya Foundation In Laakeech social work efforts and support the Nutrition Program for native elders and children in the communities nearby Chichen Itza. 
 

 

WHAT NOT TO MISS  IN  CHICHEN ITZA:
 

Maya Jungle Eco-Tours: Enjoy Yucatan's wildlife: beautiful birds singing as you stroll safely the Maya Jungle guided by a local Maya Bird-watching Tour Guide explaining you the many eco-wonders of Chichen Itza, the flora and fauna of Yucatan, its beauty and gifts.
 

Enjoy the pampering holistic traditions at Yaxkin Spa, Chichen Itza, Yucatan, MexicoYaxkin Spa: Take time to enjoy and indulge in a Mayan Spa holistic personal care offered at Yaxkin a Mayan  Eco-Spa that is  certified by The Universidad Internacional de Ciencias y Tecnologia Maya. Yaxkin Spa has been selected as one of the Ten Best Eco-Spas of the World. Spa lovers and visitors can experience at Yaxkin Spa the mystical healing power and natural balancing of soul, mind and body. Read our article about Mayan healing. For further information about Yaxkin Spa Eco-Maya Retreat: www.yaxkinspa.com

 

WHERE TO STAY IN CHICHEN ITZA: 
 

Hacienda Chichen Resort a green boutique hotel and Eco-Cultural ParadiseReserve at least a two-night stay in Chichen Itza, where you will find many hotels.  We recommend you stay book National Geographic editors favorite: Hacienda Chichen Resort with its vast tropical lush gardens, incredible cultural legacy and outstanding gourmet Mayan Cuisine. An ideal Eco-Spa Getaway  and  Wedding Destination in Yucatan, Mexico. For great Yucatan vacation packages and hotel offers visit Chichen Services, your Eco-friendly Mayan Vacation Portal.

 

 

WHERE TO EAT IN YUCATAN:

 

Enjoy the exquisite texture, flavor, and aroma of a gourmet Shrimp Ix-Chel Grilled PlatterWhere to eat in Chichen Itza - Our Top Choice: Hacienda Chichen Resort and Spa
For gourmet cuisine lovers, the exquisite gourmet menu selection served at the Chilam Balam Restaurant at Hacienda Chichen Resort in Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico, will create a culinary experience difficult to forget.  Chilam Balam Restaurant is our recommended  top choice. This five star gourmet restaurant in Chichen Itza is located within Hacienda Chichen in Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico.  Here you relax and enjoy top high quality gourmet meals, fresh food, excellent friendly service, and a majestic Colonial ambiance over-viewing lush tropical gardens. The hotel buys selected quality local produces as part of their sustainable tourism practices, and Chef Josue Cime is an award winning master of Fusion Cuisine based on Mayan culinary traditions. Try Chef Josue's organic fresh Cream of Chaya soup or delight in a fresh Boquinete a la Lima fish fillet. Hacienda Chichen Resort Breakfast Prices $$ Lunch Menu Prices $$ Dinner Menu Prices $$$
Excellent Service, Cuisine and Wine Selection.  Ideal restaurant in Chichen to plan your next party!Fresh Seafood Platter perfectly grilled lobster tails, shrimps, deep fried calamari rings, crab, and other delights served with zesty Mexican sauces.

 

Where to eat in Cozumel Island:  When visiting Cozumel eat at Buccanos, within the Club Cozumel Caribe, an informal bar and grill restaurant. A truly perfect gourmet fusion menu awaits you! try their Seafood Platter (photo) filled with fresh lobster tails, shrimps, crab, calamari, and zesty Mexican sauces that enhance their flavor. While in the club, take time to scuba-dive and enjoy the beautiful private sandy beach. Cozumel Island's Cozumel Caribe Buccanos Restaurant is not open for Dinner.
Breakfast Price $$ Lunch Menu Prices $$$

 

 

WHERE TO AVOID EATING IN CHICHEN ITZA:
 

Yucatan village and Chichen Itza low budget restaurants:
mayan woman preparing food to sale in Chichen Itza's main street.  Delicious food to local residents, not recommended for touristsBe extra careful when eating at
local village restaurants; if you are not used to low food standards of hygiene, some of these eating places (specially street food vendors) are not your smart choice. Beware of well known hotels in Chichen Itza, Piste, and Valladolid offering "low budget buffet lunches" as they may not follow quality meal processing standards. Many hotels and village restaurants cut on food quality in order to offer low budget meals in Chichen Itza with buffet choices that are not freshly made and have been fried with old re-used frying oils, lard, etc... food ingredients of low quality and difficult to digest.  Check menu prices, the lower the price the menu offers the more you should worry about its quality, processing, and lack of good butcher hygiene standards. 

 

Avoid eating Buffet meals while in Chichen Itza and the Yucatan:

Avoid eating at Buffet style lunches in Chichen Itza or any other area you visit in Yucatan. Climate, flying insects, heavy frying oils, and other food hazards may cause you a stomach flu or digestive problems.
Buffet meals are not your best choice, such food arrangements are health hazards to say the least, perfect places to catch  a serious stomach flu, salmonella outbreaks, or other intestinal problems. Thus, we do not recommend you to eat in any of the various Chichen Itza buffet group lunches and buffet meal hotels and restaurants in Yucatan and the Riviera Maya unless you are in a large all inclusive resort that cooks meals daily, and even then, be extra careful not to eat finger food that may have been touch by others.

 

When visiting Yucatan remember that the climate does not help keep buffet meals fresh and safe; the heat and sun help food ferment easily; plus in Yucatan, buffet meals are filled with low quality fried food.  We highly recommend travelers to be careful when eating in Chichen Itza, such Buffet lunches are exposed to many people handling the food with their fingers.  Insects such as common flies may have time to lay their eggs causing travelers health hazard in a few days.  If you must eat at a buffet style luncheon or dinner while in Yucatan: make sure you avoid raw vegetables, unpasteurized dairy products such as fresh cheese, eggs, etc.  Also wash your hands prior to eating, avoid finger food, check the staff to see how they work around the food displayed on the buffet table.
Avoid all fried foods, specially in low budget buffets because they are likely to be cooked and fried with old over-used and saturated frying oils.


Be extra careful in low budget eating places in Yucatan: Mayan rural people are used to chicken, other meats and vegetables that are unchecked by official sanitary standards; Mayan people are not food quality conscious, so you may not have the anti-bodies needed to avoid getting sick.  Avoid all open buffet lunches and dinners, such settings are easy for food fermentation and offer poor quality food purchasing to accommodate low sale pricing. If in doubt, ask the restaurant or hotel you wish to order a meal to allow you to visit their kitchen, helping you to have a clear saying. If you got food allergies advice staff at ordering time.
Other Chichen Itza Hotels and Resorts: Breakfast Price $ Lunch Menu Prices $ Dinners: $$
 

Back to Top

 

   RECOMMENDED  CENOTES  IN  YUCATAN:

    

Read our article: Yodzonot Cenote and Eco-Park, an empowering story.Dzinup Cenote (18 min by car from hotel free Hwy to Valladolid) A magical place to swim and enjoy the geological formations of the Yucatan, blue pristine underground "lake like" cenote, impressive rock formations and tree roots.

   

Yodzonot Cenote Please read our article about this incredible natural ecological wonder. Great swimming, local food palapa and low admission fee. This cenote is under the care and protection of a small group of Maya local females. Your visit to the site will encourage them, help their families' economy, and bring a well deserved sense of success. Food is prepared in a clean simple kitchen and the park offers eco-friendly bathroom facilities.
 

     RECOMMENDED  COLONIAL  TOWNS IN YUCATAN:

  

Valladolid Cathedral is one of Yucatan's Colonial landmarks.Tabi: A 10 minute drive from Piste via Libre Union and Yaxcaba, this small village has an amazing Colonial masterpiece of the Ascension Virgin at its Church's altar. The elaborated artwork has been recently restored. The sacristy has a secret small chapel with fabulous colonial murals that are sure to enchant you.
       

Valladolid: Just a 30 minute drive from Chichen Itza, you will find Yucatan's Colonial capital: Valladolid, a city older than its current capital, Merida. The city's Historic Center has wonderful examples of Colonial architecture and flair.  The Main Square has a lovely central park and a Cathedral. Visit the San Bernardino de Siena Convent with its many original altarpieces and beautiful 18th Century designs.

Izamal  For those traveling to Merida from Chichen Itza, a two hour visit to this Colonial city may be worth adding to your trip.  It is a 45 minutes by car if driving on the Toll Hwy to Merida. The Convent San Antonio de Padua is the mayor attraction; the convent holds many Colonial murals and religious images. You can find "Mache butterflies", natural fiver hammock workshops and sisal goods made here and sold in the main market.

 

Merida This Colonial city is an hour and a half minutes away from Chichen Itza. The city offers many free cultural events each night in its many parks and plazas; it has two public Performing Arts Theatre that show many good plays, concerts, and ballet programs.  We recommend you visit public and private Art Galleries. This is a city where you can indulge in good eating, especially seafood restaurants abound, here but do remember they are opened only during lunch time. 

Back to Top

 

RECOMMENDED RIVIERA MAYA BEACHES:

  

Maya Riviera Coastline: Chichen Itza is just an hour and a half away from the beautiful white sandy beaches of the Riviera Maya, from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Holbox, Cozumel, to Akumal, visitors may find all types of towns ambiances to meet their wants:
 

Cancun offers long sandy beaches, fabulous Caribbean Sea views, great turquoise blues clear water, waves and romantic sunrises. This is a busy tourist city, with all the international flair and choices of restaurant, malls, night clubs, etc.  Ambiance is gear to please the American young crowds.

  

Playa del Carmen a more European style and ambiance, close shopping streets, cafes, and large all-inclusive hotels are found near the beach. This is the place to take the ferry to visit Cozumel Island for a day trip.

 

Akumal  a charming small beach front residential town with a few hotels, perfect for travelers wishing to avoid crowds and busy tourist sites. Beach front has many large rocky shores with truly interesting wave brake views.

 

Club Cozumel Caribe private beach front, ideal for scuba diving and swimmingCozumel Island  a relaxed tropical ambiance that offers the best scuba-diving experience in Mexico!  Enjoy its white soft sandy beaches and a great meal at Buccanos Bar and Grill, located at the Club Cozumel Caribe, open to the public, great private beach, pool area, excellent food, fun ocean activities.
 

Back to Top

 

Other Eco-Activities and Visit We Recommend:

RIO LAGARTOS' FLAMINGO BIOSPHERE AND NATURE RESERVE

Want to enjoy a truly fantastic Eco-Vacation in Yucatan? Go to Chichen Service Vacation Deals nowTravelers wishing to have a truly magical encounter with Flamingos in the wild, and enjoy a beautiful fun eco-adventure, should visit Rio Lagartos.  Just two hours from Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico, this coastal fisherman's village offers a unique opportunity to encounter the wild beauty of a landscape filled with wildlife and birds. Visit the following website:
http://www.riolagartosexpeditions.com/elmer/rio.htm  or contact directly Elmer, a Local Bird-watch Guide we recommend you: elmer_flamingos@hotmail.com; Elmer and his local Mayan fellows have organized fantastic flamingo tours, night visits, and other wonderful fun activities; their tour prices are clearly found in the website (above link) and all profits are directly benefiting this local Mayan guides families, we are not associated or profit from sales but wish to promote their services as an effort to support the Mayan people and local small ventures in the Yucatan.

 

Contact us now to request articles you would like to read in our website.

Back to Top        

 

MAYA FOUNDATION IN LAKECH A.C. AND HACIENDA CHICHEN”S SOCIAL ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS TO SUPPORT LOCAL MAYA COMMUNITIES
              AND NATURE CONSERVATION RESERVE:
              

   

The  Geotourism Challenge for Sustaining the Future of Destinations, featured our NGO Maya Foundation In Laakeech A.C. and the Hacienda Chichen sustainable tourism innovating programs.  The Geo-Challange project sponsors:  National Geographic and Ashoka's Changemakers.

 

Maya Foundation In Laakeech Social Volunteer Work Program
includes ongoing support to:

 

Xcalacoop Elementary School Ongoing support to the school needs.

 

Xcalacoop Health Center Weekly food supplies to the Nutrition Program held at the XHC, up keeping of the older building to continue the various community programs held at the XHC, while the new building donated by the hotel is under construction; the building will have boy and girls bathrooms, an eco-friendly septic system, kitchen and a multi-purpose room ample enough to gather the 140 malnutrition kids during their daily meal at the center.

 

Yodzonot Cenote Community Project Hacienda Chichen actively promotes this eco-park under the care of a local group of females with ongoing publicity and marketing strategies, including paid ads online, articles, etc.

 

Maya Jungle Reforestation and Nature Reserve Ongoing protection of flora and fauna programs which include a vast reforestation of hardwoods within the 300 hectares of private land dedicated to eco-friendly activities gear to educate and train local native people to care for the environment and preserve the safety of our water resources.

Education Programs As part of the commitment to help our staff broaden their opportunities and continue their education, our Maya Foundation Programs pay our staff enrollment in various training workshops and d programs such as Local Archaeologist Tour Guide and Local Bird-watching Certification among other education opportunities offered in Piste, Xcalacoop and Valladolid. Additional education opportunities, such as English classes, computer and job related workshops, are available to our staff in our in-house training programs.

 

If you wish to learn more about these education programs and help fund any of these social projects, please contact our Maya Foundation Board of Trustees via email  info@yucatanadventure.com.mx
 

Check our Vacation Offers and Discount Prices before you book your visit to Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico, and help us help.  3% of the total monthly sales go directly to the Maya Foundation In Laakeech social volunteer programs and projects!


For truly romantic honeymoon packages and green vacation offers to Chichen Itza,  including: day tours to Mayan archaeological sites, cenotes, birding, etc.  visit our sponsor’s website: www.chichenservices.com
  www.travelyucatantoday.com

Back to Top       


Special Open to the Public Invitation from our Sponsor

HACIENDA CHICHEN RESORT
Mother Nature's May Festival

2010 March is our Mayan Mother Nature Month

Enjoying Mother Nature at Hacienda Chichen, Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico  Celebrate Life and indulge in a transforming Maya Spa experience at Yaxkin Spa

Yucatan's Wildlife:  Our World, Our Mission
protecting Yucatan's fauna (indigenous animals)

Mammals   Birds   Reptiles
.
Butterfiles   Flying Insects    Spiders / Mantis

   Delight your senses with Yucatan's fruits and beautiful flora

View our beautiful Yucatan Flora Photo Info article now

We hope you enjoy reading and viewing our new article about Yucatan endemic fauna (indigenous wild animals: birds, butterflies, mammals, and other creatures). This coming June 3rd, 2010 we will celebrate Mother Nature and Life with a Mayan Water Blessing Ceremony offer by the Maya J-Men Wiseman, for further details contact us.

  Yucatan Adventure welcomes article, news, travel contributions, and ideas on how to support the Maya Foundation In Laakeech A.C. efforts to help the Mayan Communities nearby Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico.

USA, Canada, or Europe Toll Free: 1-(877)-631-4005
From Mexico:  52 (999) 920 84 08
Email:
info@haciendachichen.com
Website: www.haciendachichen.com


21st of March Equinox Maya Celebration:

J-Men Valerio during the New Fire Maya Ceremony: Blessing Mother Nature
MAYAN SPRING 2010 EQUINOX CEREMONY
at the Mayan Senior Wiseman and Healer's
Chichen Itza Sacred Ceremonial Site

Hacienda Chichen Maya Jungle Reserve at 10AM
Open to the Public for free participation, donations of USD $ 10
or more are highly appreciated by the Mayan Senior Healers

Remember to book your reservation for the Zumpul-che Mayan Holistic Purification Sweat-bath ritual which will be celebrated at the Sacred Mayan Cave, after the New Fire Mayan Equinox Ceremony. Register Now! Limited Participants.


March
21st, 2010
TÁA'JCHE - Mayan Sacred Equinox Ceremony, Private Sacred Ceremony for Hacienda Chichen guests only.  To be celebrated during the afternoon prior to sunset at the Sacred Maya Site, Hacienda Chichen Resort's Maya Jungle Reserve.  Time 10AM sharp, participation FREE.

Mayan Zumpul-che Purification Cave Sweat-bath Ceremony, Time after free ceremony and you need to pay your reservation. Groups of 15 participants per session will be conducted in 3 sessions after the Maya Spring Equinox free ceremony ends. if you are interested in participating take advantage of this holistic Mayan Ceremony experience; remember to bring light cotton wear, shorts, t-shirt or bathing wear.  Participate in our 2010 March Equinox Mayan Zumpul-che Ceremony at a special discount price offer of USD $65 plus tax and fees (15% tax and 15% gratuity), a 28% discount from the regular USD $90 plus tax price.

First Zumpul-che Ceremony Session ( 8 AM  to 9:30 AM )

Register and prepay a reservation for one through four adults here:

Session 1
Full Name (Primary Adult)

Second Zumpul-che Ceremony Session  (12 noon to 1:30 PM)

Register and prepay a reservation for one through four adults here:

Session 2
Full Name (Primary Adult)

Third Zumpul-che Ceremony Session (2 PM to 3:30 PM)

Register and prepay a reservation for one through adults here:

Session 3
Full Name (Primary Adult)

 

December 21st, 2010

Mayan Winter Solstice Ceremonies
and the Mayan Moon Ritual to the 12th Moon of 2010::

Participate in our Mayan Sacred Winter Solstice Morning Ceremony at
Hacienda Chichen's Sacred Ritual Site in Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico.

Ceremony will be offered at 8:30 am by an Elder Mayan Wiseman, Reserve
 

Enjoy a very special night at Hacienda Chichen Resort
when the Mayan Wiseman celebrate their 12th full moon Mayan Ceremony
at 8:00 P.M. on the day of the Mayan Winter Solstice: 21 Dec. 2010.

Book now Hacienda Chichen New Year's Dinner and the Full Moon Ritual.

 

 

December 31st, 2010

Come Celebrate New Year's Eve
in Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico

 Enjoy a very special New Year's Dinner Gala at Hacienda Chichen Resort
for details and reservations please contact: info@haciendachichen.com


 

Article exclusively written for Yucatan Adventure © 2007  

 Published November 2007  
 Updated September 2008
 Updated January, Feb., April, July, September, November 2009.


                                                                

 

Yucatan Adventure:Mexico's best Green Eco-Travel Guide - Bringing you information pertaining to the Yucatan and the Mayan World.Yucatan Adventure offers Mayan Vacation Packages this 2009 at low prices to visit Yucatan, Mexico, enjoy Chichen Itza magic and mystical Mayan experiences by selecting one of our many Yucatan Eco-Vacations and Mexico's top Green Spa-Wellness Retreats in Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico.  Visit our "Mayan Eco-Spa Special Offers and Chichen Itza Eco-Spa Resort Vacation Packages and Family Eco-Cultural Activities gear to enjoy Yucatan, Mexico while supporting Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Tourism; stay in Mexico's best Green Boutique Hacienda Hotel in Chichen Itza, indulge in unique Mayan holistic Spa beauty care, tour the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza or swim at Yodzonot Cenote, capture the magic of birds flying at sunrise singing all day at the Hacienda Chichen Bird Refuge, Yucatan's best private Maya Jungle Reserve and Eco-Resort, all of these an more will help you enjoy your stay!

 

Yucatan Hotels Vacation Packages, Discount Hotel Offers and
Mayan / Colonial "Fiestas and Free Events"2010 year includes: 

2011 CALENDAR OF FREE EVENTS:
14th of F
ebruary Fiesta:


SAINT VALENTINE'S MAYA CHOCOLATIER FESTIVAL
For the Love of Chocolate Culinary Festival
Free Maya Culinary Classes  Celebrating Love and Friendship at Hacienda Chichen

This 14th of February, Mayan Chocolatier Aurelio Haz Kub, Consulting Chef at Hacienda Chichen, will be offering free Mayan Culinary Classes to couples as part of the Maya Foundation In Laakeech 2009 Fiesta and Festival Events. Register here, limited admission; classes will start at 4pm and will follow a St. Valentines Cocktail Party, donations of USD $10 per couple are requested.
  2010 CALENDAR OF SPECIAL YUCATAN HOTEL DISCOUNT OFFERS AND VACATION PACKAGES: visit our Special Offers